Jacoby Ellsbury, OF

J. Meric/Getty ImagesIf Jacoby Ellsbury plays like he did in 2011, when he returns he will provide a significant boost to the team.

After a breakout season, Jacoby Ellsbury suffered a potentially season-ending injury when he dislocated his shoulder on April 13.

If Ellsbury can return as scheduled and provide anything close to his 2011 performance, where he hit .321 with 32 home runs, 39 stolen bases and, more importantly, a .376 OBP, then he will be a major addition to the team.

The return of a healthy Crawford and Jacoby Ellsbury would be a significant boost to the Red Sox. If both players can return to form, they will provide a substantial improvement both offensively and defensively.

Andrew Bailey, P

Elsa/Getty ImagesAndrew Bailey could replace Alfredo Aceves as the team's closer when he returns.

Before Andrew Bailey’s Red Sox story could even begin, he was hampered by a thumb injury that has caused him to undergo thumb surgery and be placed on the 60-day DL.

However, when he returns, Bailey will provide the bullpen with a viable closer with three years of experience and a two-time All-Star. According to The Boston Globe, Bailey has been cleared to throw and could return soon.

Even though Alfredo Aceves has pitched really well, by using Bailey as the closer, Bobby Valentine will be able to use Aceves in other high-pressure situations.

Bailey’s addition to the bullpen will not only make it easier on Aceves, but it will take pressure off of every other pitcher as well.

Even if Bailey doesn’t automatically get the closers role, he could be the team’s setup man, something the Red Sox lack at the moment.

Melancon was healthy but erratic and allowed 11 earned runs in just two innings.

But since he joined Pawtucket, he has turned things around and has returned to being a strikeout pitcher. In 21 games at Triple-A, Melancon has a 0.83 ERA, 27 strikeouts and, more importantly, just three walks in 21.2 innings pitched.

The trip to Pawtucket to regain his form was exactly what the doctor ordered, and now Melancon is prepared for a call-up whenever the bullpen needs a boost (via ESPNBoston.com).